Charm and charisma can come in handy in life in many ways, from career to personal relationships. However, there’s a difference between being genuinely personable and playing it up in a fake way to try and get what you want. If you notice someone doing these things, chances are you’re dealing with a smooth operator and need to beware.
1. They have an answer for literally everything.
They’re quick on their feet, always ready with a response, whether it’s a witty comeback or a well-thought-out explanation. This can be impressive, but it’s also a sign they’re used to steering conversations and situations to their advantage.
2. They’re freakishly charming.
Charm is their middle name. They know how to make people feel special and heard, often using their charisma to influence or persuade. While this can be genuinely pleasant, it’s also a tool they use to create a favorable impression, making it easier for them to get what they want.
3. They’re masters of flattery.
They’re experts at giving compliments that make people feel good about themselves. However, it’s often more about manipulation than genuine praise. They use flattery to lower defenses and gain trust, making it easier to sway opinions and actions. (P.S. If you’re sick of dating people like this, our sister site, Sweetn, could lead you in a new direction by overhauling your love life in just a few weeks.)
4. They never want to give a direct answer.
They’re skilled at redirecting conversations away from topics they prefer not to discuss. This tactic keeps them in control of the narrative, preventing others from pinning them down or uncovering their true intentions.
5. They’re always networking.
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Smooth operators are always on the lookout for new connections. They understand the power of networking and use every opportunity to expand their circle. While networking is obviously a valuable skill, for these people, it’s often about what these connections can do for them rather than mutual benefit.
6. They seem too good to be true.
Often, things with a smooth operator seem just a bit too perfect. They have a knack for presenting themselves and their ideas in the best possible light. While it’s natural to want to make a good impression, with them, it can feel like a carefully curated performance designed to enchant and deceive.
7. They’re extremely good at reading people.
Reading people and situations like the back of their hand — a smooth operator uses this skill to their advantage. They tailor their approach based on what they pick up about others’ preferences and vulnerabilities, often under the guise of empathy, but primarily as a means to influence and steer interactions.
8. They never lose their cool even in stressful times.
Their ability to stay composed under pressure is notable. This calmness in stressful scenarios isn’t just a sign of resilience; it’s part of their strategy to manipulate situations without revealing their true emotions or intentions.
9. They like to lead because it gives them control.
They have a knack for taking charge in pretty much every setting. This leadership tendency, while it seems to be a good thing, often serves their need to control situations and direct outcomes to their advantage. They’re not doing it because they want what’s best for everyone — they want what’s best for themselves.
10. Their storytelling abilities are unmatched.
Their natural talent for spinning a yarn goes beyond mere entertainment. They weave stories to enhance their image, highlighting their experiences and successes to build an appealing persona that ends up winning over anyone who’s listening. Sure, they exaggerate and sometimes outright lie, but most people don’t realize it.
11. They ooze confidence.
Their magnetic confidence is hard to miss. They carry themselves with an air of assurance that draws people in and makes everyone want to be around them. It’s like they just have some special sauce that only they have the recipe for. Obviously, this confidence can sometimes be a cover for arrogance, they just cover it up with their charisma.
12. They know exactly how to portray the image they want the world to see.
They’re all about image and perception. Beyond their physical appearance, they meticulously curate their public and social media personas to come up with an image that’s both appealing and envy-inducing. However, it’s not always accurate or truthful to who they actually are or what their life is like, but that hardly matters to smooth operators…
13. They’re ace at building superficial connections.
Their social circle seems to be huge, but these connections are usually surface-level. Smooth operators are really good at making a lot of acquaintances quickly, and they always use these relationships for personal gain. Sadly, it’s less about genuine friendship and more about having a wide network to call on when needed.
14. They’re all about dodging the blame.
When things go south, they have a knack for avoiding blame. They skillfully deflect responsibility, and somehow they always manage to reframe the situation to make themselves the victim. They’re not just trying to escape accountability; it’s a calculated move to maintain their image and influence.
15. They change their tastes to stay relevant.
They have a habit of shifting interests and opinions to align with current trends or influential people. This adaptability isn’t about personal growth; it’s a strategic move to stay relevant and keep the attention and popularity they’re desperate for. They are always on the lookout for the next big thing that can elevate their status.
16. They have a very selective memory.
Their memory of past events oh-so conveniently aligns with their current narrative. They remember details that cast them in a good light and forget those that don’t, of course. No, they didn’t legitimately forget — it’s a deliberate tactic to shape stories in a way that helps them avoid criticism and look like the good guy/girl.
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